Pair of Flintlock Pistols

ca. 1650–60

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 375

The Francino gunsmiths of Brescia and Gardone were celebrated. The superiority of Brescian barrels was long recognized. Aside from embellishment, they were sought for the quality of their metal, which was light in weight yet strong. The delicately pierced steel ornament inlaid to be flush with the surface of the stock is a characteristic design feature of Brescian firearms of this period.

Artwork Details

Title: Pair of Flintlock Pistols
Gunsmith: Girolamo Francino (Italian, Brescia, recorded 1666–1709)
Date: ca. 1650–60
Geography: Brescia
Culture: Italian, Brescia
Medium: Steel, wood (walnut)
Dimensions: L. of each 22 1/2 in. (57.2 cm); L. of each barrel 15 13/16 in. (40.2 cm); Cal. of each .52 in. (13.2 mm); Wt. of each 1 lb. 15 oz. (879 g)
Classification: Firearms-Pistols-Flintlock
Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1928
Object Number: 28.196.17, .18
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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ca. 1660–70

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